Cora Seaborne is a fictional character from the novel "The Essex Serpent" by Sarah Perry. Set in the late 19th century, she is a widowed woman with a keen interest in natural history and a fascination for the unknown. Cora seeks to escape her past and embarks on a journey to the coastal village of Aldwinter in Essex, where she investigates rumors of a mythical serpent. Throughout the story, Cora's character challenges societal norms, particularly regarding gender roles and independence. Her interactions with other characters, including the local vicar, Will Ransome, highlight themes of belief, science, and the complexities of human relationships.